15 June 2022
Dear family member/resident representative,
Thank you for your ongoing support as we manage the risk of COVID-19 in your loved one’s aged care centre.
I am very sad to let you know that unfortunately one of our residents who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 passed away this morning. The women was on a palliative pathway before testing positive to COVID-19 and was receiving additional support from palliation specialists.
On behalf of everyone at IRT I would like to pass on my sincere condolences to all of the resident’s family members and friends, including our Greenwell Gardens residents and staff, who are understandably saddened by her passing.
Our staff hold the responsibility of caring for residents at the end of their life with deep respect and honour, and today as they go about their work caring for all our residents, they will reflect on that precious time spent with a resident now-gone, and their stories of a long life, well lived.
We continue to care for 12 residents who are COVID-19 positive at the aged care centre and who are experiencing a range of mild symptoms. One of our positive residents remains in hospital where they are receiving care for an unrelated COVID-19 health matter.
Today we have unfortunately identified another two COVID-19 positive residents in Callala House via rapid antigen test. A PCR test is being conducted on these residents to confirm that the virus is present. We have been in contact with their family and these residents are being encouraged to stay within their room.
With this increase in cases at the aged care centre, tomorrow all residents who have not yet tested positive in Cambewarra, Currarong and Callala House will be PCR tested again. We understand that this process may be uncomfortable for some of our residents, however it is critical that we detect any suspected cases early to minimise the risk of the virus spreading within the centre.
With the risk of the virus still present within the centre and more broadly in the community, we are vigilant with our infection control protocols and continue to manage the care centre in accordance with our outbreak management plan.
Our lifestyle team is supporting residents today with one on one visits where required and have distributed bags of treats, including lollies and chips.
Visiting arrangements and the wearing of PPE
I strongly encourage you to reconsider your visit at this time or the need to take your loved one out of the centre. If you do proceed please assist staff by complying with the following:
- Do not bring children under 12 years of age to the aged care centre.
- Residents will be permitted 2 visitors only by appointment.
- All visitors will be asked to show proof of a negative rapid antigen test before entering the care centre.
- All visitors will be asked to wear all necessary PPE while in the care centre including a P2/N95 mask and a face shield which will be provided on entry.
- Those visiting a resident who is considered a close contact or is COVID-19 positive will also be asked to wear a gown and instructed on how to dispose of it safely.
- Please co-operate with staff if they ask you to adjust your PPE so that it is worn correctly. They are working to ensure the safety of all our residents and to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading within the centre.
- If you do take your loved one on an outing please be mindful of the risks within the broader community and be aware that your loved one will be required to complete a rapid antigen test on their return to the centre.
Please do not visit the care centre if you are unwell with even the mildest symptoms. Even if you have tested negative for COVID-19 you could have influenza which is also highly contagious.
Please pass this information on to others in your family as you consider appropriate.
If you have any questions please contact your Care Manager.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Yours sincerely
Richard Walsh
Acting EGM – Aged Care Centres
